Green Synthesis-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles Based Biocomposite Films for Wound Healing Application

Wound care is a clinical challenge due to the susceptibility of the wound to multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. We report a multifunctional biocomposite of chitosan and gelatin (ratio = 1:1) based on silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The Ag NPs were selected due to their antimicrobial nature and were synthesised from an eco-friendly route using Ocimum sanctum (tulsi). The size of particles was 28.95 ± 7.74 nm in Transmission electron microscopy micrographs. Different concentrations of Ag NPs (0, 1, 2%, w/v) were used to prepare nano-biocomposite films (CG, CG1 and CG2) through the physical blending process followed by the solvent evaporation method. The physical properties of films, such as thickness and weight, were 0.10–0.12 mm and 0.93–1.55 g, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and thermal gravimetric analysis studied the films' morphology and thermal stability. The Fourier transform infrared spectra affirmed the bond between silver and chitosan–gelatin. Nano-biocomposites showed high water uptake (300%) due to Ag NPs. Further, in vitro studies revealed antibacterial activity (Escherichia coli) with good in vitro biocompatibility and wound healing potential in the L929 mouse fibroblast cell line. Thus, the silver nanoparticle-biocomposite could be an effective topical dressing for biomedical applications.